Lira, Uganda — For many graduates, the wait for formal employment is a season of frustration and idleness. But for Anna Maria Apon, a graduate of Uganda Christian University (UCU) with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Art and Design, the wait has become a season of creativity and income.
Apon, who majored in Interior Design and Graphic Design, has refused to let her hands stay idle. While searching for a job in her field, she has turned to crocheting — a skill she taught herself — and is now earning between UGX 100,000 and UGX 150,000 every week.
"My course mates would call me 'A Day Girl' because anything you see, I can do it. I am more of an experimenter. Whatever I think in my mind, I do it," Apon said with a smile.
Her journey is a testament to versatility. Beyond interior and graphic design, Apon also practices fashion design and crocheting. But it is crocheting that is currently putting food on her table and keeping her hope alive.
"I do crochet while I look for a job," she explained. "It is not just a hobby; it is my livelihood right now. Every design you see is my own original creation. I don't copy anyone."
Apon works from her home, relying entirely on orders from clients. She admits that she has no external support or sponsors — just her hands, her creativity, and her determination.
"I have nobody. I do my work at home on orders. I urge people to support me by placing orders," she said.
Her message to fellow youth is one of grit and integrity. She advises young people to embrace hard work and to pursue money through honest means.
"Love working. Struggle hard to get money in a good way. Don't sit and wait for a white-collar job when you have hands that can create something," she urged.
Apon's story reflects a growing trend among Ugandan graduates who are turning to vocational skills and self-employment amid a competitive job market. For her, crocheting is not a fallback — it is a stepping stone, a source of dignity, and a testament to the power of using one's hands.
Those interested in supporting her work or placing orders can reach out to her directly for custom crochet designs, all personally crafted and uniquely her own.
